Capital campaign resources applauded

In 2015, territorial headquarters (THQ) implemented a series of three-day seminars designed to equip officers and development staff preparing to conduct a capital campaign. New resources were developed to streamline and simplify the process, and a partnership with the Fund Raising School at Indiana University brought instructors alongside to lead sessions.

“The seminars were developed to create a collaborative environment in which corps and the social services, property and development departments all work together,” said Major Alan Wurtz, capital campaign consultant. “It’s a new way of approaching the intentional and intensive process of conducting a capital campaign.”

Capital campaigns provide the funding necessary for the construction, major remodeling or purchase of Salvation Army facilities and are an enormous undertaking. The implementation of this new approach has proven advantageous.

“The seminar gave us the opportunity to sit down and learn the entire process from how to start to what forms to file and the timeline,” said Jeremy Monteith, Ottowa County, Mich., development director. With two campaigns currently in progress, he’s grateful for the seminar and THQ resources.

Most recently, Major Alan has been developing a new database with more information, including sample case statements, job descriptions and videos. He envisions the database as an ongoing project that will receive frequent updates in order to remain helpful and relevant.

In addition to the support provided by these excellent resources, territorial and divisional headquarters provide financial incentives as campaigns reach fundraising milestones. According to the major, these funds play an integral role in helping corps see the possibilities for success. They also show the community the corps has the support of the larger organization, boosting confidence in the project and helping increase the level of giving from donors. Time is limited, however, as the incentive period ends in September 2019.

Currently there are seven capital campaigns in various stages throughout the territory. People from each location conducting a campaign have attended a seminar. In total, 240 individuals have been trained.

“The seminar was very helpful as far as learning the process,” said Lt. Chrissie Coreano, Dodge City, Kan., corps officer, “but Major Alan has been the best resource. He’s always available to help, and he’s very knowledgeable.”

Going forward, seminars will be held annually to continue resourcing and equipping the territory for capital campaigns. “We want them to be successful,” concluded Major Alan. “If a campaign is successful, everyone wins: the corps, the community and the larger Salvation Army.”

Tags:

Ads

You May Also Like

The final word at Easter

by General Lyndon Buckingham Several of the main characters in the crucifixion and resurrection ...

On the path to service

EDS training and certification more accessible than ever Through harnessing new technologies and creating ...

Pop-up history a hit, wins award

The Central Territory Museum has received a Best Practice Award from the Illinois Association ...